Surinder Verma : A life long crusader for Consumer Rights and Champion of Investor Awareness and Education

Surinder Verma is a seasoned social activist, consumer rights advocate, and media professional whose work over the last three decades has significantly contributed to public awareness, investor education, and citizen empowerment in India. Born and brought up in Kot Kapura, Punjab, his journey reflects a deep-rooted commitment to social responsibility and grassroots change.

After completing his primary education in Kot Kapura, Surinder Verma moved to Banga for his schooling and later shifted to Chandigarh in 1983 for higher studies. He completed his graduation from DAV College, Chandigarh, followed by post-graduation in History and Political Science from Panjab University, Chandigarh—an academic foundation that would later shape his understanding of governance, public policy, and citizen rights.

He began his professional career with the Office of the Regional Provident Fund Commissioner, Chandigarh, and later joined the Food Corporation of India (FCI), Regional Office Haryana, Sector 17, Chandigarh, on 1st January. Alongside his official responsibilities, he actively associated with several social and civil society organisations, including the National Confederation of Central Government Employees, Consumer Forum Chandigarh, Environment Society of India, Pakistan–India People’s Forum for Peace and Democracy, South Asia Fraternity, and the Federation of Sector Welfare Associations.

During his tenure with FCI Punjab Region, where he served in the Accounts and Public Relations Division, Surinder Verma handled official press releases and media interactions. With the encouragement of senior officers, he launched two magazines—Consumer Power and Investor’s Update—marking the beginning of his focused engagement with consumer awareness and investor education. His interaction with officers from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) further motivated him to actively promote quality standards and consumer education programs.

Inspired by family support, friends, senior officers, and like-minded organisations, Surinder Verma founded and registered the Citizens Awareness Group (CAG) on 28th December 1994. Under his leadership, the organisation undertook extensive work in public health and social development, addressing issues such as HIV/AIDS, leprosy, epilepsy, pulse polio immunisation, women and environmental welfare, female foeticide, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, domestic violence, along with organising blood donation and eye operation camps. His impactful work earned him multiple honours from Deputy Commissioners, Home Secretaries, Advisors to Governors, and Ministers of the Punjab and Haryana Governments.

Recognised for its credibility and dedication, Citizens Awareness Group was invited by the Consumer Coordination Council, Delhi—the apex body of consumer organisations—to work on national issues including drug addiction, anti-tobacco campaigns, and road safety. In 2006, the organisation was officially designated as a Consumer Advocacy Group by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and recognised as an Investors’ Association by officers of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).

CAG continues to work closely with leading industry bodies such as PHDCCI, CII, FICCI, and ASSOCHAM, and regulators including IRDAI, FSSAI, QCI, and BIS, participating in national programs and publishing awareness initiatives through print and digital media. Details of its work are available on cagchandigarh.in.

In recognition of his lifelong contribution to investor awareness, Surinder Verma, Chairman of Citizens Awareness Group and Editor-in-Chief of Mirror365.com and ChandigarhToday.org, was felicitated as “Champion of Investors Education and Awareness – 2025” by SEBI and the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) during Bharat Ka Share Bazar at the International Trade Fair, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

He also jointly inaugurated the SEBI Pavilion “Bharat Ka Share Bazar” at the CCI Fair 2025, alongside Shri Sanjeev Arora, Industry Minister, Government of Punjab, further underscoring his role as a national voice for investor education.

Surinder Verma’s journey stands as a powerful example of how sustained dedication, ethical leadership, and grassroots engagement can create lasting impact. His work continues to inspire citizens to be informed, empowered, and active participants in India’s democratic and economic framework.